Riverbend Park

For us Arkansans, the natural beauty of our state is a source of immense pride, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and peaceful escapes. From the majestic Ozark Mountains to the tranquil flow of our rivers, there’s always a perfect spot to reconnect with nature. When it comes to riverside camping, a true gem for locals is Riverbend Park in Hardy, Arkansas. Nestled along the banks of the picturesque Spring River, this campground provides an ideal setting for families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind in the heart of the Ozarks.

Riverbend Park is a well-established and beloved destination, particularly known for its prime location on the Spring River. This pristine waterway, fed by Mammoth Spring, boasts consistently cool temperatures and crystal-clear waters, making it a fantastic spot for a variety of aquatic activities. The park is designed to cater primarily to RV campers, offering sites with essential hookups and access to convenient facilities. It’s a place where you can easily launch a canoe for a leisurely float, cast a line for trout, or simply relax by the water's edge, soaking in the serene natural surroundings.

What truly sets Riverbend Park apart for many locals is its blend of natural charm and community feel, often described as being "in Old Hardy Town." This gives campers not just a place to stay, but also easy access to the historic and quaint offerings of Hardy. Imagine a day spent floating the river, followed by an evening stroll through a town that has retained its old-world charm since the Model-T days. This combination of outdoor recreation and small-town appeal provides a unique and enriching experience that resonates deeply with Arkansas’s heritage.

For us Arkansans, finding a campground that offers both the rugged beauty of the Ozarks and the comforts needed for a pleasant stay is key. Riverbend Park delivers on this, providing a practical and inviting base for exploring the Spring River area. Whether you're planning a weekend fishing trip, a family float, or a longer seasonal stay, Riverbend Park aims to provide a memorable experience that highlights the best of Arkansas’s outdoor recreation.

This article will delve into the specifics that make Riverbend Park a go-to destination for locals, covering its advantageous location, the services and features it provides, how to get in touch for reservations, and ultimately, why it continues to be a top choice for Arkansas residents seeking a genuine riverside escape.

Riverbend Park is conveniently located on Bluff Rd, Hardy, AR 72542, USA. This address places it directly on the banks of the beautiful Spring River, a significant draw for campers seeking water-based recreation. Hardy, Arkansas, is a charming and historic town situated in the Ozark Mountains of Sharp County, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.

The park's location provides excellent accessibility to the Spring River, which is renowned as one of Arkansas's best float streams and a prime destination for trout and walleye fishing. Mammoth Spring, the headwaters of the Spring River, ensures consistent water levels and cool temperatures year-round, making it suitable for various activities any time the campground is open (typically March through October). Direct river access from the campground means campers can easily put in canoes, kayaks, or tubes for leisurely floats or engage in bank fishing.

Hardy is easily accessible via U.S. Highways 62, 63, and 412, which provide direct routes into town from various parts of Arkansas. Bluff Road, where the park is located, is a local road connecting directly to the town center and other main thoroughfares. This ensures a relatively smooth journey for those arriving by car or RV. While the exact address might sometimes be listed slightly differently (e.g., 145 Bluff Road or 1 Bluff Road, both being entrance gates), the destination is clearly Hardy.

Being "in Old Hardy Town" means that campers at Riverbend Park are not only immersed in nature but also have convenient access to the town's amenities. Old Hardy Town's Main Street is on the National Register of Historic Places and offers unique shops, antique stores, and local restaurants, providing additional activities beyond the campground itself. This blend of natural beauty and small-town charm makes Riverbend Park an accessible and appealing destination for Arkansas locals seeking a memorable getaway.

Riverbend Park aims to provide essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, particularly for RV campers:

• RV Sites: All sites are equipped with water and electricity hookups. While some information suggests that individual lots might require campers to arrange their own electricity with Entergy, other sources indicate water and electricity are standard. It's vital to confirm specific site hookups when booking.
• Bathhouse: Access to a shared bathhouse with separate men's and women's restrooms and showers is available. Some historical information suggests coin-operated showers, but daily cleaning is emphasized.
• Sanitary Station (Dump Station): A sanitary station is available for RV waste disposal. For long-term or seasonal campers, there are also provisions for weekly holding tank pumping services, often requiring an email/text request.
• Camp Store: A store is available on-site, carrying basic camping and floating supplies, offering convenience for forgotten items or immediate needs.
• Pets Allowed: Pets are welcome at the campground, provided they are kept on a leash at all times, making it a pet-friendly option for animal-loving campers.
• River Access: Direct access to the Spring River is a primary offering, enabling activities like fishing, floating, kayaking, and canoeing right from the park.
• Picnic Areas: While not extensively detailed, the park likely offers picnic areas for day use or casual dining.
• Garbage Dumpsters: Use of garbage dumpsters is provided for waste disposal.
• Playground: A playground is available in the park area near the campground, offering recreational opportunities for children.
• Laundry Facilities: While not specifically mentioned within the park itself, amenities common to well-equipped campgrounds often include laundry facilities or access to them nearby.

• Prime Spring River Location: The most significant highlight is its direct access to the beautiful Spring River, renowned for its clear, cool waters, excellent fishing (especially trout and walleye), and prime conditions for floating, kayaking, and canoeing.
• RV-Centric Camping: The park is well-suited for RVs, offering essential water and electric hookups at sites, providing a comfortable base for mobile campers.
• Proximity to Old Hardy Town: Campers benefit from being "in Old Hardy Town," providing easy access to its historic Main Street with antique shops, craft stores, and local eateries, enhancing the overall visitor experience beyond just camping.
• Fishing & Floating Opportunities: The Spring River is a major draw for these activities. Outfitters like 3 Rivers Outfitters, operating nearby, can provide additional floating and fishing opportunities on the Spring and South Fork Rivers.
• Clean Bathhouse Facilities: Emphasis is placed on daily cleaning of restrooms and showers, aiming to provide sanitary facilities for campers.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: The campground welcomes leashed pets, allowing families to bring their furry companions on their outdoor adventure.
• Seasonal Operation: Open from March through October, the park aligns perfectly with the prime camping and river recreation seasons in Arkansas.
• Playground for Kids: The presence of a playground makes it a suitable family-friendly option, offering entertainment for younger campers.
• Scenic Beauty of the Ozarks: Situated in the Ozark Mountains, the park offers picturesque natural surroundings, including rocky bluffs and lush foliage.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or the most current information about Riverbend Park in Hardy, Arkansas, connecting with the park management is recommended.

Address: Bluff Rd, Hardy, AR 72542, USA

While a general contact number for "Hardy RV Park" (which appears to be Riverbend Park or a closely associated entity) is available, specific contact details for the "River Bend Property Owners Association Inc" are also provided for more detailed inquiries, particularly for long-term or property-related questions.

General Park/Campground Phone: (870) 856-2356 (Local number often associated with "Hardy RV Park")

Property Owners Association Office Manager: (870) 819-7757

Property Owners Association Park Manager: (870) 897-7275

When contacting, it’s advisable to confirm specific site availability, hookup details, current rates, and any specific policies, especially concerning pets or long-term stays. For inquiries about pump-out services or gate codes, the Property Owners Association contacts would be more appropriate. Given the emphasis on the Spring River, inquiries about river conditions or local outfitter partnerships could also be beneficial for planning your trip.

For us Arkansans, Riverbend Park in Hardy stands out as a highly suitable and appealing choice for a multitude of reasons, making it a go-to destination for our outdoor adventures. Its blend of prime location, practical amenities, and access to local charm truly caters to what we look for in a local getaway.

Firstly, the unparalleled access to the Spring River is a massive draw. We know and appreciate our state's beautiful waterways, and having a campground directly on the banks of a clear, cool, and fish-rich river like the Spring River is invaluable. Whether we’re seasoned anglers looking for trout, families eager for a lazy float trip, or simply wanting to cool off on a hot summer day, the convenience of launching right from the park is a significant advantage. It allows us to truly embrace the "Natural State" experience without extensive travel or hassle.

Secondly, its location in "Old Hardy Town" provides a unique cultural component to the camping experience. After a day spent on the river or exploring the natural beauty of the Ozarks, being able to easily visit a historic town with its quaint shops and local eateries adds another layer of enjoyment. This blend of natural recreation and small-town charm offers a well-rounded escape that resonates with our appreciation for both Arkansas's landscapes and its heritage.

The practical amenities, such as RV sites with water and electricity, along with accessible bathhouses and a dump station, ensure a comfortable stay. The fact that pets are welcome also makes it a family-friendly choice, as many of us enjoy bringing our furry companions along on our trips. While it might be a traditional campground rather than a luxury resort, it provides the essential comforts needed for an enjoyable and affordable outdoor adventure.

In conclusion, Riverbend Park in Hardy is an ideal choice for Arkansas locals. It offers direct access to the beloved Spring River, a comfortable and convenient camping setup for RVers, and the added charm of a historic town, all nestled within the scenic beauty of the Ozarks. It’s a perfect spot for creating lasting memories, whether through fishing, floating, or simply enjoying the peaceful rhythm of riverside life in our beautiful state.